TheSchloss Solitude Academy Fellowshipis one of the most prominent cultural and artistic programs in Europe, awarded by theAkademie Schloss Solitude in Stuttgartto artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners from around the world. The fellowship aims to support independent creative work, promote cultural exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration, and provide an inspiring environment rich in artistic and intellectual experiences.
About the Program
The Academy awards between50 and 60 residency fellowshipsevery two years, covering a wide range of fields such as visual arts, writing, music, design, architecture, literature, the humanities, and digital technologies.
The fellowship seeks to provide a space for focused work, cross-cultural exchange, and professional networking at both local and international levels. Participants may also organize their own events or collaborate with other cultural institutions in Stuttgart and the surrounding region.
Fields of Practice
Applications are open for six main spheres known as“Spheres of Practice”:
- Visual Arts (VISUAL)– Painting, photography, sculpture, video, film, and performance art.
- Music & Performing Arts (AURAL & PHYSICAL)– Music, composition, sound art, theater, dance, choreography, and directing.
- Architecture & Design (SPATIAL)– Architecture, urban planning, fashion design, scenography, and product design.
- Literature & Language (TEXTUAL)– German-language or international literature, including poetry, prose, translation, and playwriting.
- Digital Arts (DIGITAL)– Art based on digital media, programming, virtual reality, and open-source or post-digital culture.
- Humanities & Applied Sciences (SCIENTIFIC)– Including philosophy, sociology, media studies, political science, economics, and life sciences.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners from all over the world who haveindependent professional experience of two to ten yearsafter completing their academic or artistic education. Applicants should be in an active phase of professional growth — not at the very beginning of their career, but not yet fully established.
Candidates with longer careers may also apply, provided they clearly explain the relevance of the fellowship to their current stage of development.
Individual applicants andcollectives (up to two people)are eligible to apply, provided they have been working together artistically for at least two years.
Applications arenot acceptedfrom:
- Individuals currently enrolled in degree programs (except PhD candidates).
- Applicants holding permanent academic positions (such as full professorships).
Proficiency inEnglish or Germanis required.
Funding Provided
The fellowship includes a6- or 9-month residencyat the Akademie Schloss Solitude in Stuttgart for individuals, or6 monthsfor collectives.
It offers full financial coverage, including:
- Amonthly stipend of €1,300to cover living expenses.
- Free accommodationin a furnished live/work studio within the academy, including workspace, kitchen, and private bathroom.
- Round-trip travel reimbursement.
- Health insurance coveragefor non-EU residents.
- Project funding, depending on budget availability.
- Access toworkshops, libraries, and laboratorieswithin the academy.
- Support forlocal and regional networkingand participation in the Academy’s events.
Fellows’ Commitments
- Full-time residence inStuttgartduring the entire fellowship period.
- Active participation in the Academy’s events and programs.
- Openness to dialogue and exchange across different cultural and intellectual backgrounds.
- Willingness to collaborate with local cultural institutions in the region.
Application Process
The application process consists ofthree main stages:
- Stage One:Submission of a short initialonline applicationthat includes basic information, motivation, and sphere of practice.
- In cases where the number of applications is very high, ananonymous random selectionsupervised by a notary will be conducted to ensure fairness.
- In cases where the number of applications is very high, ananonymous random selectionsupervised by a notary will be conducted to ensure fairness.
- Stage Two:Submission of thefull application, including a detailed project proposal, CV, and work samples.
- Stage Three:Independent jury selection, based on the quality, relevance, and originality of the applicant’s project and portfolio.
Selection Criteria
The jury focuses on:
- The artistic or research depth of the proposed project.
- Originality and contemporary relevance.
- The applicant’s readiness for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- The appropriateness of the fellowship to the applicant’s current professional stage.
Accommodation
Fellows are housed in one of41 live/work studioswithin the Academy’s building, located next to the historic Schloss Solitude Palace.
Each unit includes a living and working area, a small kitchen, and a private bathroom.
Application Deadline
Thefirst stage of the call for applications for the Solitude Fellowship 2026–2028is now open and will remain sountil November 14, 2025, at 6 PM (CET).